M62

Alt. Designations: NGC 6266
Object Type: Globular Cluster
Constellation: Ophiuchus
Distance: 22.5 kly
Right Ascension: 17h 01m 12.6s
Declination: -30° 06´ 42"
Visual Magnitude: 6.6
Apparent Dimension: 15.0´ Dia.
Best Month To View: Jun

The constellation Ophiuchus is home to an unusual globular cluster known as M62. This cluster is known for its highly irregular shape. This deformation is believed to have been caused by gravitational tidal forces acting on the cluster due to its close proximity to the galactic center. It is only 6,100 light-years from the center of our galaxy. The cluster is located about 21,000 light-years from Earth. At magnitude 6.6, this is a bright object that can easily be found with a par of binoculars. As with most globular clusters, a small telescope will bring out its glittery details.